Renewed Focus on Wisconsin Construction Zone Safety

Governor Scott Walker has declared April 11-15 as Work Zone Awareness Week. Last year, three highway workers were killed in traffic accidents on Wisconsin roads. The Governor hopes this awareness week will bring attention to the need for an increased focus on safety in these dangerous zones.

Construction zones present a number of serious hazards for both motorists and construction workers who must work within close proximity to traffic. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) is urging drivers to slow down, remain patient and to pay attention while driving through construction zones.

Although construction workers are at the greatest risk for being injured in these environments, studies show that three out of four people killed in work zone accidents are actually motorists.

In an effort to improve safety within these areas, WisDOT will install temporary rumble strips on a number of highway projects to provide a vibratory and auditory warning to drivers to slow down in these areas.

Drivers can also expect increased presence of Wisconsin State Patrol and other law enforcement agencies who will be out enforcing speed limits and other laws in work zones throughout this week and beyond. Drivers should also remember that fines within construction zones are doubled when workers are present.

New Cellphone Use Law

Just in time for Work Zone Awareness Week, the Governor has also signed into law a new bill that imposes a fine for drivers talking on a hand-held device in a construction zone.

Drivers could face a $20 to $40 fine for a first offense, or up to $100 in fines for a second violation within one year. The only exception to this law is if there is an emergency.

A spokesperson for AAA Wisconsin has noted how important it is for drivers to be fully alert when driving, especially in work zones. Workers are extremely vulnerable and motorists should be aware of the risks of driving through these areas.

Distracted driving, such as talking on a phone, texting, eating, doing makeup or other distractions while driving, is a leading factor in most auto accidents. That is why April was set aside as Distracted Driving Awareness Month, to bring attention to the dangers of driving while distracted.

If you have been injured in an accident, contact the auto accident lawyers at PKSD. We will fight to defend your rights.